Air purifying device

Abstract

The air purifying apparatus of the present disclosure includes a main body case having a suction port (2) and a blowout port. The main body case has: an electrolytic cell (34) that stores water containing sodium chloride; an electrolysis unit that electrolyzes the water in the electrolytic cell (34) to generate water containing active oxygen species; a sterilization zone that supplies the water containing active oxygen species in the electrolytic cell (34) with a supply of active oxygen species using an active oxygen species supply portion (19); an air / water contact portion that brings the water containing active oxygen species of the sterilization zone into contact with air; and a fan that sends air sucked in from the suction port (2) toward the blowout port via the air / water contact portion. The electrolytic cell (34) is disposed above the sterilization zone.

Description

air purification device Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an air purification device that uses salt water in a water storage container to generate hypochlorous acid, causing a filter partially immersed in the water in the water storage container to rotate, and includes an air path that uses the hypochlorous acid-containing water for sterilization through the filter ventilation. Background Technology

[0002] As an existing air purification device, one known air purification device includes a main body shell having an air intake and an air outlet. The main body shell has: an electrolytic cell for storing water containing sodium chloride; an electrolytic unit for electrolyzing the water in the electrolytic cell to generate water containing active oxygen species; a sterilization zone in which the water containing active oxygen species in the electrolytic cell flows into the sterilization zone via a connecting passage; a gas-liquid contact section for contacting the water containing active oxygen species in the sterilization zone with air; and a fan for sending air drawn in from the air intake to the air outlet via the gas-liquid contact section (e.g., Patent Document 1). The electrolytic cell and the sterilization zone are arranged side by side in a water storage container. The water storage container has a connecting passage connecting the electrolytic cell and the sterilization zone.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-190553 Summary of the Invention

[0006] In this existing air purification device, the electrolytic cell and the sterilization zone are arranged side-by-side within a water storage container. Furthermore, the water storage container has a connecting passage that links the electrolytic cell and the sterilization zone. Water from the electrolytic cell flows into the sterilization zone via this connecting passage. However, water from the sterilization zone sometimes also flows into the electrolytic cell via the connecting passage. A gas-liquid contact section is provided within the sterilization zone, allowing the water containing active oxygen species in the sterilization zone to come into contact with air. Air drawn in from the intake port is sent to the gas-liquid contact section by a fan. Here, impurities from the air sometimes mix with the water in the sterilization zone. If this water containing impurities flows into the electrolytic cell, there is a problem that the efficiency of the electrolysis unit in electrolyzing the water in the electrolytic cell is reduced due to the impurities.

[0007] The air purification device disclosed herein includes a main body housing having an air intake and an air outlet. The main body housing comprises: an electrolytic cell storing water containing sodium chloride; an electrolysis unit that electrolyzes the water in the electrolytic cell to generate water containing active oxygen species; a sterilization zone supplying the water containing active oxygen species to the electrolytic cell via an active oxygen species replenishment unit; a gas-liquid contact section that brings the water containing active oxygen species in the sterilization zone into contact with air; and a fan that delivers air drawn in from the air intake to the air outlet via the gas-liquid contact section. The electrolytic cell is positioned above the sterilization zone.

[0008] This disclosure provides an air purification device that prevents water containing airborne impurities from flowing into the electrolytic cell and reduces the reduction in the electrolysis efficiency of the electrolysis unit. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an air purification device according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0010] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the air purifier with its door open.

[0011] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the air purification device.

[0012] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the water storage section of the air purification device.

[0013] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the air purification device.

[0014] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the water storage section of the air purification device.

[0015] Figure 7 is a top view of the water storage section of the air purification device.

[0016] Figure 8 is a top view of the water storage section of the air purification device.

[0017] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the water supply section of the air purification device.

[0018] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the electrolytic cell of the air purification device.

[0019] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the electrolytic cell of the air purification device.

[0020] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the electrolytic cell of the air purification device.

[0021] Figure 13 is a perspective view of the tablet dispensing mechanism of the air purification device.

[0022] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the tablet feeding box inside the tablet feeding mechanism of the air purification device. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024] (Implementation Method 1)

[0025] Figures 1 and 2 are perspective views of the air purification device 100 according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0026] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the air purification device 100 from the front side. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the air purification device 100 with the door open and the water storage section 16 removed from the front side. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the air purification device 100 of Embodiment 1 from the side.

[0027] Furthermore, in the following text, the vertical direction in the state where the air purifier 100 is set up as shown in Figure 1 (hereinafter also referred to as the "setting state") is sometimes referred to as the up-down direction, and the horizontal direction is referred to as the left-right direction. In addition, in the setting state of the air purifier 100, the side of the air purifier 100 with the door 3 is referred to as the "front", the side of the air purifier 100 opposite to the front is referred to as the "back", the side on the right side viewed from the front side of the air purifier 100 is referred to as the "right side", and the side on the left side is referred to as the "left side".

[0028] The detailed structure of the air purifier 100 will be described below. As shown in FIG1, the air purifier 100 of this embodiment has a main body shell 1 with a generally box-shaped form. Approximately quadrilateral air intakes 2 are provided on both sides of the main body shell 1. An openable and closable door 3 is provided on the front of the main body shell 1. By opening the door 3, a portion of the air purification unit 7 (see FIG3), described later, can be removed from the main body shell 1. An openable and closable air outlet 4 is provided on the top surface of the main body shell 1.

[0029] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, a partition plate 5, a fan 6, an air purification unit 7, an air duct 8, and a control unit 9 are provided inside the main shell 1.

[0030] The partition plate 5 is a plate disposed in the center of the main body shell 1, which, together with the partition wall 24 described later (see Figure 4), separates the front side and the back side of the main body shell 1. Here, the back side of the main body shell 1 separated by the partition plate 5 is the air passage 8.

[0031] The fan 6 draws air into the main body housing 1 through the air intake 2 and blows the drawn air out through the air outlet 4. The fan 6 is located in the center of the main body housing 1 and includes a motor part 10, a fan part 11 that rotates through the motor part 10, and a housing part 12 that surrounds the motor part 10 and the fan part 11.

[0032] In this embodiment, the operation of the fan 6 is determined by the operation unit 1A provided on the main body shell 1. As shown in Figures 1, 2, and 3, the operation unit 1A is covered by an openable cover 1B provided on the top surface of the main body shell 1. The user of the air purification device 100 of this disclosure can adjust the airflow of the fan 6 in stages by operating the airflow switching button (not shown) provided on the operation unit 1A. The user's operation information is sent to the control unit 9 as an input signal.

[0033] The fan unit 11 is fixed to the motor shaft 13, which extends horizontally from the motor unit 10. The fan unit 11 is, for example, a Sirocco fan.

[0034] The motor unit 10 is fixed to the housing unit 12. An outlet 14 is provided on the upper surface of the main body shell 1 of the housing unit 12. An inlet 15 is provided on the back side of the main body shell 1 of the housing unit 12.

[0035] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the water storage container 21 of the air purifier 100 of Embodiment 1 disposed within the main body shell 1. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the air purifier 100 of Embodiment 1 with some of its constituent parts removed. Figure 6 is a perspective view of the water storage section 16 of the air purifier 100 of Embodiment 1.

[0036] As shown in Figures 2 to 6, the air purification unit 7 is a device that stores water from the water supply unit 22 in an electrolytic cell 34, and adds electrolysis promoting tablets to the water in the electrolytic cell 34 through the tablet feeding mechanism 35 to perform electrolysis and generate water containing hypochlorous acid. The generated water containing hypochlorous acid comes into contact with the air drawn into the main body shell 1 from the air intake 2 by the fan 6 and is then released from the blow outlet 4.

[0037] The air purification unit 7 includes a water storage section 16, an electrolysis section 17, a water supply section 18, an active oxygen supply section 19, and a water replenishment section 20.

[0038] The water storage section 16 stores water and performs sterilization. The water storage section 16 has a water storage container 21, a water supply section 22, and a gas-liquid contact section 23.

[0039] Figure 7 is a top view of the water storage section 16 of the air purification device 100 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 8 is a top view showing the internal structure with a portion of the components of the water storage section 16 of the air purification device 100 according to Embodiment 1 removed.

[0040] As shown in Figures 4, 6, 7, and 8, the water storage container 21 is located at the lower part of the main shell 1 and has a box-shaped form with an open top surface, thus forming a structure capable of storing water. The water storage container 21 has a partition wall 24, a water supply area 25, and a sterilization area 26.

[0041] As shown in Figure 4, the partition wall 24 is a plate in the water storage container 21 that separates the front side (outside the air passage 8) of the main body shell 1 from the back side (air passage 8) of the main body shell 1. The partition wall 24 extends upward from the bottom surface of the water storage container 21. The upper end of the partition wall 24 is positioned above the upper end of the water storage container 21.

[0042] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 6, 7, and 8, a portion of the upper surface of the partition wall 24 comes into surface contact with the wall surface of the partition plate 5. Thus, the front side (outside the air passage 8) of the main body shell 1 and the back side (air passage 8) of the main body shell 1 are separated in a manner where there is no airflow between them.

[0043] The water supply zone 25 is roughly bowl-shaped and is a partition for storing water supplied from the water supply unit 22. The water supply zone 25 is located on the front side of the main body shell 1, within the water storage container 21 disposed at the lower part of the main body shell 1, compared to the partition wall 24. Furthermore, the water supply zone 25 has a structure capable of holding the water supply unit 22. At the bottom of the water supply zone 25, a cylindrical protrusion 27 is provided at the position where the water supply unit 22 is held.

[0044] The sterilization zone 26 is roughly bowl-shaped and is a partition for storing water containing hypochlorous acid at a specified concentration. The sterilization zone 26 is arranged across the front and back sides of the partition wall 24, and is connected to the front and back sides of the partition wall 24 through an opening (not shown) located below the water surface of the partition wall 24. The sterilization zone 26 has a first water level detection unit 28 and a second water level detection unit 29 for detecting the water level in the sterilization zone 26.

[0045] The first water level detection unit 28 detects situations where the water level in the sterilization zone 26 becomes lower than the target water level. The target water level refers to the maximum water level set for each component during the air purification operation of the air purification device 100 of this disclosure. The water level shortage refers to the minimum water level set for each component during the air purification operation of the air purification device 100 of this disclosure.

[0046] The first water volume detection unit 28 includes a first float portion 28a with buoyancy located on the back side of the partition wall 24 in the sterilization zone 26, and a first detection sensor (not shown) for detecting the position of the first float portion 28a.

[0047] The first float portion 28a is disposed within the sterilization zone 26. The first detection sensor is embedded in the wall of the main body shell 1 near the first float portion 28a.

[0048] When the water level in the sterilization zone 26 drops below the water shortage level, the first detection sensor can no longer detect the first float portion 28a due to the resulting floating of the first float portion 28a. At this time, the first detection sensor sends a signal to the control unit 9 indicating that the water level in the sterilization zone 26 is below the water shortage level.

[0049] The second water level detection unit 29 detects that the water level in the sterilization zone 26 has reached the target water level. The second water level detection unit 29 includes a second float portion 29a with buoyancy located on the front side of the partition wall 24 in the sterilization zone 26, and a second detection sensor (not shown) for detecting the position of the second float portion 29a.

[0050] The second float portion 29a is disposed within the sterilization zone 26. The second detection sensor is embedded in the wall of the main body shell 1 near the second float portion 29a.

[0051] When the water level in the sterilization zone 26 rises to the target water level, the second detection sensor can detect the second float portion 29a due to the resulting floating. At this time, the second detection sensor sends a signal to the control unit 9 indicating that the water level in the sterilization zone 26 has reached the target water level.

[0052] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the water supply section 22 of the air purification device 100 according to Embodiment 1.

[0053] As shown in Figures 2 and 9, the water supply unit 22 is installed in the water supply area 25 and is designed to be detachable from the water supply area 25, automatically supplying water in a manner that keeps the water level in the water supply area 25 constant. The water supply unit 22 has a hollow water tank (container) 30 for storing water and a handle 30a provided on the upper part of the water tank 30. The handle 30a is integrated with the water tank 30. Therefore, the user can detach and install the water supply unit 22 in the water supply area 25 while holding the handle 30a.

[0054] The water tank 30 has a circular opening (not shown) at the center of its bottom surface when installed in the water supply area 25. The opening of the water tank 30 is a cylindrical shape extending vertically along its central axis, and is configured to be sealed by a cover 31 that can be detached from the outer periphery of the opening.

[0055] The cover 31 is a cylindrical shape extending vertically along its central axis. When installed in the water storage container 21, a cylindrical opening 31a is provided at the center of the bottom surface of the cover 31, opening vertically. A valve 31b is provided in the opening 31a to open and close the cover.

[0056] The valve plug 31b includes a cylindrical shaft (not shown), an on / off valve (not shown) disposed at one end of the shaft in such a way as to close the cover opening 31a, a helical spring (not shown) disposed in such a way that the shaft can pass through its center, and a spring stop portion (not shown) disposed at the other end of the shaft.

[0057] When the water tank 30 is positioned in the water supply zone 25, the spring stop portion contacts the protrusion 27 of the water supply zone 25. Consequently, the spring stop portion moves upward while compressing the spring. The valve of the valve plug 31b moves upward accordingly, and the valve exits through the cover opening 31a of the cover 31. Thus, water from the water tank 30 flows into the water supply zone 25 through the cover opening 31a of the cover 31.

[0058] Here, when water accumulates in the water supply zone 25 up to the lower end of the cover opening 31a, air will not enter the water tank 30 from the lower end of the cover opening 31a. Therefore, water in the water tank 30 will not flow into the water supply zone 25. That is, when the water in the water supply zone 25 decreases, the water level will increase to the lower end of the cover opening 31a, where the water level remains constant. Therefore, a constant water level can always be maintained in the water supply zone 25.

[0059] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the gas-liquid contact section 23 is located on the back side of the partition wall 24 in the sterilization zone 26, and is a component that allows the water stored in the sterilization zone 26 to come into contact with the indoor air drawn into the main body housing 1 by the fan 6. The gas-liquid contact section 23 includes a filter 32, a filter frame 33, and a drive unit (not shown).

[0060] The filter 32 is water-retaining and cylindrical in shape, with holes on its circumference to allow air to pass through. The filter 32 is mounted on the filter frame 33 with one end immersed in the water in the sterilization zone 26.

[0061] The filter frame 33 is rotatably supported by a bearing (not shown) provided in the water storage container 21. The filter 32 and the filter frame 33 are configured to rotate via a drive unit.

[0062] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the electrolytic cell 34 of the air purification device 100 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 11 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the electrolytic cell 34 of the air purification device 100 according to Embodiment 1, with a portion of its constituent parts removed. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the electrolytic cell 34 of the air purification device 100 according to Embodiment 1, viewed from the side.

[0063] As shown in Figures 10, 11 and 12, the electrolysis unit 17 electrolyzes the water in the electrolysis cell 34 to generate water containing hypochlorous acid.

[0064] The electrolysis unit 17 includes an electrolytic cell 34, a tablet feeding mechanism 35 (see Figure 2), and an electrolysis unit 36.

[0065] The electrolytic cell 34 is disposed above the water storage container 21 and is approximately box-shaped with an open top. The electrolytic cell 34 stores water supplied from the water storage unit 16 by the water supply unit 18. The electrolytic cell 34 has a third water level detection unit 37 and a fourth water level detection unit 38 for detecting the water level in the electrolytic cell 34.

[0066] The third water level detection unit 37 detects whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 34 is above or below the water shortage level. The third water level detection unit 37 includes a third float portion 37a with buoyancy and a third detection sensor (not shown) that detects the position of the third float portion 37a.

[0067] The third float portion 37a is disposed in the electrolytic cell 34. The third detection sensor is embedded in the wall of the main body shell 1 near the third float portion 37a.

[0068] When the water level in the electrolytic cell 34 rises from below the water shortage level to reach the water shortage level, the third detection sensor can detect the third float portion 37a due to the resulting floating. At this time, the third detection sensor sends a signal to the control unit 9 indicating that the water level in the electrolytic cell 34 has reached or exceeded the water shortage level.

[0069] Furthermore, when the water level in the electrolytic cell 34 drops below the water shortage level, the third detection sensor can no longer detect the third float portion 37a due to the resulting floating of the third float portion 37a. At this time, the third detection sensor sends a signal to the control unit 9 indicating that the water level in the electrolytic cell 34 is below the water shortage level.

[0070] The fourth water level detection unit 38 detects that the water level in the electrolytic cell 34 has reached the target water level. The fourth water level detection unit 38 includes a fourth float portion 38a with buoyancy, and a fourth detection sensor (not shown) that detects the position of the fourth float portion 38a.

[0071] The fourth float portion 38a is disposed in the electrolytic cell 34. The fourth detection sensor is embedded in the wall of the main body shell 1 near the fourth float portion 38a.

[0072] When the water level in the electrolytic cell 34 rises to the target water level, the fourth detection sensor can detect the movement of the fourth float portion 38a. At this time, the fourth detection sensor sends a signal to the control unit 9 indicating that the water level in the electrolytic cell 34 has reached the target water level.

[0073] Figure 13 is a perspective view of the tablet feeding mechanism 35 of the air purification device 100 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 14 is a perspective view showing the tablet feeding box 39 of the tablet feeding mechanism 35 of the air purification device 100 according to Embodiment 1.

[0074] As shown in Figures 13 and 14, the tablet feeding mechanism 35 is positioned above the electrolytic cell 34. The tablet feeding mechanism 35 includes: a tablet feeding box 39, a tablet feeding component 40 disposed within the tablet feeding box 39, a tablet feeding cover 41 detachably disposed on the upper part of the tablet feeding box 39, and a feeding motor for rotating the tablet feeding component 40. When the tablet feeding cover 41 is removed from the tablet feeding box 39 and an electrolysis accelerator tablet 42 is placed inside the tablet feeding box 39, the feeding motor rotates the tablet feeding component 40. The feeding motor rotates the tablet feeding component 40 at predetermined intervals via a control unit 9. As a result, the electrolysis accelerator tablet 42 automatically falls from the opening 39a on the bottom surface of the tablet feeding box 39 into the electrolytic cell 34. For example, sodium chloride can be used as the electrolysis accelerator tablet 42.

[0075] Electrolysis unit 36 ​​immerses a first electrode (not shown) and a second electrode (not shown) in water in electrolysis tank 34. A voltage is applied to these electrodes to electrochemically treat the water in electrolysis tank 34 containing an electrolysis-promoting tablet 42 dispensed by tablet dispensing mechanism 35, generating hypochlorous acid. An example of the electrolysis-promoting tablet 42 is sodium chloride. Electrolysis unit 36 ​​electrochemically electrolyzes the sodium chloride aqueous solution to generate electrolyzed water containing active oxygen species (hypochlorous acid, in this embodiment, for example).

[0076] Here, reactive oxygen species refer to oxygen molecules and related substances that have higher oxidizing activity than ordinary oxygen. For example, reactive oxygen species include not only so-called reactive oxygen species in the narrow sense, such as superoxide anion, singlet oxygen, hydroxyl radical, or hydrogen peroxide, but also so-called reactive oxygen species in the broad sense, such as ozone and hypochlorous acid (hypohalic acid). In addition, in this embodiment, the generation of electrolyzed water containing reactive oxygen species (hypochlorous acid in this case) is sometimes expressed as the generation of reactive oxygen species (hypochlorous acid in this case).

[0077] As shown in Figures 4, 5, and 6, the water supply unit 18 supplies water from the water storage unit 16 to the electrolysis unit 17. As shown in Figure 6, for example, the water supply unit 18 has a water supply pump 43 installed in a manner that is immersed in water in the water supply area 25 and a water supply passage 44 connected to the water supply pump 43.

[0078] Water supply pump 43 is a suction pump that moves water supplied from water supply section 22 to water supply area 25 to water supply channel 44 and delivers it to electrolytic cell 34.

[0079] The water supply line 44 is a cylindrical pipe with openings at both ends. One end of the opening of the water supply line 44 is connected to the water supply pump 43, and the other end of the opening of the water supply line 44 is located above the top surface of the electrolytic cell 34.

[0080] As shown in Figures 4, 5, 11, and 12, the active oxygen seed supply unit 19 transports water from the electrolyzer 34 to the water storage unit 16. The active oxygen seed supply unit 19 includes an active oxygen seed communication section 19a and an active oxygen seed pump unit 19b.

[0081] The active oxygen seed connecting section 19a is a flow path that connects to the electrolyzer 34 and the sterilization zone 26. The active oxygen seed pump unit 19b is a mechanism that supplies water to the electrolyzer 34 into the active oxygen seed connecting section 19a.

[0082] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the water replenishment unit 20 delivers water from the water supply area 25 to the sterilization area 26. The water replenishment unit 20 consists of a water replenishment pump 51 immersed in the water in the water supply area 25 and a water replenishment channel 52 connected to the water replenishment pump 51.

[0083] The water replenishment pump 51 is a suction pump that moves the water supplied from the water supply section 22 to the water supply area 25 to the water replenishment channel 52 and delivers it to the sterilization area 26.

[0084] The water supply path 52 is a cylindrical pipe with openings at both ends. One end of the opening of the water supply path 52 is connected to the water supply pump 51, and the other end of the opening of the water supply path 52 is located directly above the water surface on the front side of the partition wall 24 of the sterilization zone 26.

[0085] That is, the main body shell 1 has a water replenishment section 20 that transports water from the water supply area 25 to the sterilization area 26.

[0086] Therefore, water containing hypochlorous acid supplied from electrolyzer 34 and water in water supply zone 25 can be mixed in any proportion. Thus, the concentration of hypochlorous acid in sterilization zone 26 can be adjusted to a specified concentration.

[0087] As shown in Figure 3, the air passage 8 connects the air intake 2 and the air outlet 4. In the air passage 8, the gas-liquid contact part 23, the fan 6, and the air outlet 4 are arranged sequentially from the air intake 2. When the fan part 11 is rotated by the motor part 10, the external air that enters the air passage 8 from the air intake 2 passes through the gas-liquid contact part 23 and the fan 6 and is blown out from the air outlet 4.

[0088] The control unit 9 is housed within the main casing 1. The control unit 9 receives signals from the first water volume detection unit 28, the second water volume detection unit 29, the third water volume detection unit 37, the fourth water volume detection unit 38, and the operation unit 1A. Furthermore, the control unit 9 controls the operation of the electrolysis unit 36, the water supply unit 18, the active oxygen seed replenishment unit 19, the water replenishment unit 20, and the tablet feeding mechanism 35. As a result, the control unit 9 adjusts the concentration and volume of the hypochlorous acid-containing water in the sterilization zone 26. Additionally, the control unit 9 can estimate the hypochlorous acid consumption and the reduction in the volume of the hypochlorous acid-containing water in the sterilization zone 26 based on the signal indicating the airflow of the fan 6 received from the operation unit 1A.

[0089] An example of adjusting the concentration and volume of hypochlorous acid-containing water in the sterilization zone 26 of the device with the above structure will be described.

[0090] When the control unit 9 detects through the third water level detection unit 37 that the water level in the electrolytic cell 34 is lower than the water shortage level, it activates the water supply pump 43 to start supplying water from the water supply area 25 to the electrolytic cell 34 via the water supply path 44.

[0091] Next, when the third water level detection unit 37 detects that the water level has risen to the water shortage level, the control unit 9 activates the tablet feeding mechanism 35 to feed the electrolysis promoting tablet 42 into the electrolysis cell 34.

[0092] Next, as the water level in the electrolytic cell 34 rises further, and the fourth water level detection unit 38 detects that the water level has risen to the target level, the control unit 9 stops the operation of the water supply pump 43.

[0093] Next, the control unit 9 starts the operation of the electrolysis unit 36 ​​and stops it after a predetermined time. Thus, water containing hypochlorous acid of a certain concentration is generated and held in the electrolysis cell 34.

[0094] When the control unit 9 infers that the hypochlorous acid in the sterilization zone 26 has been consumed by a predetermined amount based on the signal indicating the air volume of the fan 6 sent from the operation unit 1A, it activates the active oxygen seed pump 45 and begins to transport water containing hypochlorous acid from the electrolysis cell 34 to the supply tank 47 via the active oxygen seed pre-stage water delivery path 46.

[0095] After a predetermined time, the control unit 9 stops the operation of the active oxygen seed pump 45. The hypochlorous acid-containing water supplied to the supply tank 47 gradually moves through the drop opening 50 to the active oxygen seed post-stage delivery water channel 48, and is then delivered to the sterilization zone 26 via the active oxygen seed post-stage delivery water channel 48.

[0096] When the control unit 9 infers that the water volume in the sterilization zone 26 has decreased by a predetermined amount based on the signal indicating the air volume of the fan 6 received from the operation unit 1A, it activates the water supply pump 51 to start supplying water from the water supply zone 25 to the sterilization zone 26.

[0097] When the second water level detection unit 29 detects that the water level has risen to the target water level, the control unit 9 stops the operation of the water replenishment pump 51. At this time, the water containing hypochlorous acid delivered from the active oxygen supply unit 19 is mixed with the water delivered from the water replenishment unit 20, and the concentration of hypochlorous acid in the sterilization zone 26 is adjusted to the prescribed concentration.

[0098] Through these controls, the water volume and concentration of hypochlorous acid within a predetermined range can be maintained in the sterilization zone 26. This allows for the provision of an air purification device that exhibits stable sterilization performance.

[0099] As described above, the air purification device 100 has an air intake 2 and an air outlet 4. The main body housing 1 has an electrolytic cell 34 for storing water containing sodium chloride, an electrolytic unit 36 ​​for electrolyzing the water in the electrolytic cell 34 to generate water containing active oxygen species, a sterilization zone 26 for supplying the water containing active oxygen species in the electrolytic cell 34 with an active oxygen species supply unit 19, a gas-liquid contact unit 23 for contacting the water containing active oxygen species in the sterilization zone 26 with air, and a fan 6 for sending air drawn in from the air intake 2 to the air outlet 4 via the gas-liquid contact unit 23. The feature of this embodiment is that the electrolytic cell 34 is positioned above the sterilization zone 26.

[0100] Specifically, as shown in Figures 3, 5, and 6, the electrolytic cell 34 is positioned directly above the water supply zone 25, which is arranged parallel to the sterilization zone 26 within the water storage container 21, with a predetermined distance between the electrolytic cell 34 and the water storage container 21. Because the electrolytic cell 34 is positioned above the sterilization zone 26, the movement of water containing airborne impurities in the sterilization zone 26 within the active oxygen supply section 19 and its subsequent flow into the electrolytic cell 34 is suppressed. Therefore, the reduction in the electrolysis efficiency of the electrolysis unit 36 ​​can be minimized.

[0101] In addition, the main body shell 1 is a long box shape. By placing the electrolysis cell 34 above the sterilization zone 26, the center of gravity of the air purification device 100 is raised. However, because the water volume in the electrolysis cell 34 is less than the water volume in the sterilization zone 26, it has a weight distribution that is not easy to collapse.

[0102] Furthermore, the fan 6 includes a motor section 10 and a fan section 11 that rotates via the motor section 10. The motor section 10 is positioned below the electrolytic cell 34. Specifically, the motor section 10 is positioned at the center of the main body shell 1 in the vertical direction. Thus, the main body shell 1 of the air purification device has a longitudinally elongated box shape, and by positioning the electrolytic cell 34 above the sterilization zone 26, the center of gravity of the air purification device 100 is raised. However, the motor section 10, being a heavier component, is positioned below the electrolytic cell 34. Therefore, the center of gravity of the air purification device 100 is further lowered, resulting in a weight distribution that is less prone to collapse.

[0103] Additionally, the main body shell 1 has a partition plate 5 extending vertically and disposed between one side and the other side of the main body shell 1. The partition plate 5 is part of the housing portion 12 in the blower 6. The electrolytic cell 34 is disposed on the side closer to the main body shell 1 than the partition plate 5 (front side). The blower 6 is disposed on the other side closer to the main body shell 1 than the partition plate 5 (back side).

[0104] Therefore, the motor unit 10 is positioned below the electrolytic cell 34, but the electrolytic cell 34 and the blower 6 are positioned on opposite sides of each other, separated by the partition plate 5. Thus, even if water leaks from the electrolytic cell 34, it is possible to prevent water droplets from the electrolytic cell 34 from falling onto the motor unit 10.

[0105] Additionally, the air purification device 100 includes a water supply area 25 for storing water and a water supply section 18 for supplying a portion of the water in the water supply area 25 to the electrolytic cell 34. The water supply area 25 is positioned below the electrolytic cell 34. A tablet dispensing mechanism 35 is provided at the upper part of the electrolytic cell 34 for dispensing an electrolysis accelerator containing sodium chloride into the electrolytic cell 34. The tablet dispensing mechanism 35 dispenses the electrolysis accelerator containing sodium chloride into the electrolytic cell 34 through an opening provided on the upper surface of the electrolytic cell 34.

[0106] In this way, the water supply zone 25 of the air purification device 100 is positioned lower than the electrolytic cell 34. Therefore, the center of gravity of the air purification device 100 is further lowered, resulting in a weight distribution that is less prone to collapse. Furthermore, the combined water volume in the sterilization zone 26 and the water supply zone 25 is greater than the water volume in the electrolytic cell 34.

[0107] In addition, the water supply area 25 is located directly below the electrolytic cell 34. When viewed from above, the electrolytic cell 34 is a structure contained within the water supply area 25.

[0108] Therefore, the water supply area 25 is located directly below the electrolytic cell 34. Thus, if water leaks from the electrolytic cell 34, it can prevent water droplets from the electrolytic cell 34 from falling into the water supply area 25 and leaking out of the main body shell 1.

[0109] In addition, the air purification device 100 has a water supply section 22 that supplies water to the water supply area 25. The water supply section 22 is located below the electrolyzer 34 and is disposed in the water supply area 25.

[0110] In this way, the water supply section 22 of the air purification device 100, which supplies water to the water supply area 25, is positioned below the electrolytic cell 34. Therefore, the center of gravity of the air purification device 100 is further lowered, resulting in a weight distribution that is less prone to collapse. Furthermore, the total amount of water in the sterilization area 26, the water supply area 25, and the water supply section 22 is greater than the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 34.

[0111] In addition, the air purification device 100 has a water storage container 21 that includes a sterilization zone 26 and a water supply zone 25. The water storage container 21 is disposed on the bottom surface 1C of the main body shell 1.

[0112] Thus, in the air purification device 100, a water storage container 21 is provided in the lower part of the main body shell 1. The water storage container 21 contains a sterilization zone 26, a gas-liquid contact section 23, a water supply zone 25, and a water supply section 22. As a result, the center of gravity of the air purification device 100 is further lowered, resulting in a weight distribution that is less prone to collapse.

[0113] Additionally, as shown in Figure 2, an openable door 3 is provided on one side (front side) of the main body shell 1. The water supply unit 22 is detachably mounted relative to the water storage container 21; it can be removed from the water storage container 21 if the water supply unit 22 is moved upwards. The water storage container 21 is detachably mounted relative to the main body shell 1 from one side (front side), including the filter 32 and filter frame 33 (which serve as the gas-liquid contact part 23); it can be removed from the main body shell 1 if the water storage container 21 is moved horizontally to one side (front side). The electrolytic cell 34 is detachably mounted relative to the partition plate 5. The filter 32 and filter frame 33 (which serve as the gas-liquid contact part 23) are detachably mounted relative to the sterilization zone 26; they can be removed from the water storage container if the filter 32 and filter frame 33 (which serve as the gas-liquid contact part 23) are moved upwards.

[0114] Therefore, by opening the closable door 3 on one side (front side) of the main body shell 1, the electrolytic cell 34, water supply unit 22, water storage container 21, and filter 32 and filter frame 33, which serve as gas-liquid contact parts 23, can be removed from the main body shell 1 for maintenance.

[0115] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 5, 10, and 12, in the active oxygen seed supply section 19, one side of the active oxygen seed supply section 19 is immersed in water within the electrolytic cell 34, while the other side is immersed in water within the sterilization zone 26. The active oxygen seed supply section 19 has an opening 47A allowing air from outside the active oxygen seed supply section 19 to enter. However, if the active oxygen seed supply section 19 lacks the opening 47A, water may sometimes accumulate within it. If this condition persists for an extended period, it is possible that water from the sterilization zone 26, containing impurities from the air, could flow into the electrolytic cell 34 via the water in the active oxygen seed supply section 19.

[0116] Specifically, the active oxygen seed supply unit 19 includes an active oxygen seed communication section 19a extending from the sterilization zone 26 to the electrolysis cell 34, and an active oxygen seed pump unit 19b (on one side of the active oxygen seed supply unit) disposed within the electrolysis cell 34 and supplying water from the electrolysis cell 34 to the active oxygen seed communication section 19a. An opening 47A is provided at the upper part of the active oxygen seed communication section 19a.

[0117] The active oxygen seed communication section 19a has a supply tank 47 provided in the electrolytic cell 34. An opening 47A is provided at the upper part of the supply tank 47. A drop opening 50 is provided at the bottom surface of the supply tank 47. The active oxygen seed replenishment section 19 is configured such that if water from the electrolytic cell 34 is supplied to the supply tank 47 through the opening 47A via the active oxygen seed pump unit 19b, the water in the electrolytic cell 34 is accumulated in the sterilization zone 26 through the drop opening 50 of the supply tank 47.

[0118] The supply tank 47 is a roughly bowl-shaped, elongated vessel with an opening 47A at the top. The supply tank 47 is located inside the electrolytic cell 34. A connection port 49 for connecting to the active oxygen seed pre-feeding water channel 46 is provided at the upper edge of the opening of the supply tank 47, and a circular opening 50 is provided on the bottom surface. A portion of the upper end of the supply tank 47 is positioned lower than the upper end of the electrolytic cell 34.

[0119] The connection port 49 is a recessed opening at the upper end of the supply tank 47, and is an arc shape with the same outer diameter as the pre-stage water delivery channel 46 for active oxygen seeds.

[0120] The opening 50 is provided so as to penetrate the bottom surface of the supply groove 47 and is circular in shape with a specified diameter.

[0121] The active oxygen seeding post-stage water delivery channel 48 is a cylinder with openings at both ends. One end of the opening of the active oxygen seeding post-stage water delivery channel 48 is connected to the drop opening 50, and the other end of the opening of the active oxygen seeding post-stage water delivery channel 48 is connected to the sterilization zone 26.

[0122] As described above, the active oxygen seed supply unit 19 is designed such that if water from the electrolyzer 34 is supplied to the supply tank 47 from the opening 47A via the active oxygen seed pump 45, the water in the electrolyzer 34 accumulates in the sterilization zone 26 via the drop opening 50 of the supply tank 47. Here, the active oxygen seed communication section 19a has an opening 47A at its upper part. That is, the supply tank 47 is approximately bowl-shaped with the opening 47A at the top. Therefore, air enters the supply tank 47 from the opening 47A, and the water in the supply tank 47 always drips from the drop opening 50, forming a waterless cavity in the supply tank 47, preventing the active oxygen seed communication section 19a from always being filled with water.

[0123] Therefore, water in the sterilization zone 26 containing impurities from the air is prevented from flowing into the electrolytic cell 34 through the water in the active oxygen seed communication section 19a, thereby reducing the decrease in the electrolysis efficiency of the electrolysis unit 36.

[0124] Industrial availability

[0125] The air purification device disclosed herein is useful for use in homes, businesses, and other applications.

[0126] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0127] 1. Main shell

[0128] 1A Operations Section

[0129] 1B Cover

[0130] 1C Bottom

[0131] 2. Inlet

[0132] 3 doors

[0133] 4. Blowout

[0134] 5. Divider

[0135] 6. Fan

[0136] 7 air purification units

[0137] 8 Wind Path

[0138] 9. Control Department

[0139] 10. Electric Motor Section

[0140] 11. Fan Section

[0141] 12. Shell section

[0142] 13 Motor shaft

[0143] 14 Discharge outlets

[0144] 15 suction port

[0145] 16 Water storage department

[0146] 17 Electrolysis Section

[0147] 18. Water Supply Department

[0148] 19. Reactive Oxygen Supply Department

[0149] 19a Reactive oxygen species connecting part

[0150] 19b Active Oxygen Seed Pump Unit

[0151] 20. Water Replenishment Department

[0152] 21 water storage container

[0153] 22 Water Supply Department

[0154] 23 Gas-liquid contact area

[0155] 24. Spacer

[0156] 25 Water Supply Area

[0157] 26. Sterilization Area

[0158] 27. Protrusion

[0159] 28. Water Quantity Testing Department No. 1

[0160] 28a First float section

[0161] 29. Second Water Quantity Testing Department

[0162] 29a Second float section

[0163] 30 water tanks

[0164] 30a handle

[0165] 31 Cover

[0166] 31a Lid opening

[0167] 31b Valve Bolt

[0168] 32 Filters

[0169] 33 Filter Box

[0170] 34 Electrolytic Cell

[0171] 35 Tablet delivery mechanism

[0172] 36 Electrolysis Units

[0173] 37. Third Water Quantity Testing Department

[0174] 37a Third float section

[0175] 38. Fourth Water Quantity Testing Department

[0176] 38a Fourth float section

[0177] 39 tablets in the box

[0178] 39a Opening

[0179] 40 Tablet feeding components

[0180] 41 Tablet Insertion Shield

[0181] 42 Electrolysis accelerator tablets

[0182] 43 Water supply pump

[0183] 44 Water supply lines

[0184] 45 Active oxygen seed pump

[0185] 46. ​​Active oxygen seed pre-conveying water circuit

[0186] 47 Supply Tank

[0187] 47A Opening

[0188] 48. Post-stage water transport system for active oxygen seeding

[0189] 49 Connection Port

[0190] 50 drops the opening

[0191] 51 Water supply pump

[0192] 52. Water supply system.

Claims

1. An air purification device, characterized in that: The device includes a main body shell with an air intake and an exhaust outlet. The main body shell comprises: an electrolytic cell storing water containing sodium chloride; an electrolysis unit that electrolyzes the water in the electrolytic cell to generate water containing reactive oxygen species; a sterilization zone supplied with the water containing reactive oxygen species from the electrolytic cell by a reactive oxygen species replenishment unit; a gas-liquid contact unit that brings the water containing reactive oxygen species in the sterilization zone into contact with air; and a fan that delivers air drawn in from the air intake via the gas-liquid contact unit to the exhaust outlet. The electrolytic cell is positioned above the sterilization zone. The main body shell also includes a water supply zone for storing water and a water supply unit that supplies a portion of the water from the water supply zone to the electrolytic cell. The water supply zone is positioned below the electrolytic cell and is located directly below the electrolytic cell. When viewed from above, the electrolytic cell is contained within the water supply zone.

2. The air purification device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The blower has an electric motor section and a fan section driven to rotate by the electric motor section, the electric motor section being positioned below the electrolytic cell.

3. The air purification device as described in claim 2, characterized in that: A partition plate extending vertically and positioned between one side and the other side of the main body shell is provided inside the main body shell. The electrolytic cell is located on the side of the main body shell closer to the partition plate, and the fan is located on the other side of the main body shell closer to the partition plate.

4. The air purification device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: A water supply unit is provided in the water supply area, which is located below the electrolytic cell and is disposed in the water supply area.

5. The air purification device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The main shell also has a water storage container that includes the sterilization area and the water supply area, and the water storage container is disposed on the bottom surface of the main shell.

6. The air purification device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: In the active oxygen seed supply section, one side of the active oxygen seed supply section is immersed in water in the electrolytic cell, and the other side of the active oxygen seed supply section is immersed in water in the sterilization zone. The air purification device has an opening for air from outside the active oxygen seed supply section to enter the active oxygen seed supply section.

7. The air purification device as described in claim 6, characterized in that: The active oxygen seed supply unit includes: an active oxygen seed communication section extending from the sterilization zone to the electrolytic cell; and an active oxygen seed pump unit disposed in the electrolytic cell, supplying water from the electrolytic cell to the active oxygen seed communication section, wherein the opening is disposed in the active oxygen seed communication section.

8. The air purification device as described in claim 7, characterized in that: The active oxygen seed communication part has a supply tank disposed in the electrolytic cell, the opening is disposed at the upper part of the supply tank, and a drop opening is disposed at the bottom surface of the supply tank. The active oxygen seed replenishment part is configured such that when the active oxygen seed pump unit supplies water in the electrolytic cell to the supply tank through the opening, the water in the electrolytic cell accumulates in the sterilization zone through the drop opening of the supply tank.

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